The Evidence Behind Our Care
How clinical research informs our assessment, design, and treatment approach
Purpose
Evidence-Informed, Not Outcome-Promising
Clinical research helps identify which outcome areas matter, how interventions are commonly assessed, and what types of changes are possible across populations.
Research does not predict individual outcomes, nor does it replace clinical judgement or personalised assessment.
Research Foundation
Types of Evidence That Inform Care
Care is informed by a combination of peer-reviewed and clinically accepted sources.
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Peer-reviewed clinical research on therapeutic footwear and foot orthoses
International clinical guidelines
Validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs)
These sources commonly examine changes in pain, comfort, mobility, and stability across different clinical populations.
Outcome Areas
Why Research Focuses on These Areas
Pain
Pain is frequently measured using patient-reported tools because it is subjective and multifactorial. Research focuses on identifying whether interventions can reduce pain levels, even modestly.
Comfort
Comfort is a key outcome in footwear research, particularly in populations with complex foot conditions. Improved comfort is often linked to better adherence and reduced skin irritation.
Mobility
Mobility outcomes reflect functional changes such as walking tolerance, gait efficiency, and confidence. These outcomes are often variable and context-dependent.
Stability
Stability outcomes may relate to balance, confidence, or perceived safety. Research commonly examines stability in populations at risk of falls or instability.
Clinical Application
How Evidence Is Applied Clinically
Evidence informs clinical decision-making across multiple aspects of care delivery.
Clinical judgement remains essential in determining what is appropriate for each individual.
Treatment planning
Footwear and orthotic design principles
Selection of materials and construction methods
Ongoing review and adjustment
Important Clarification
The presence of clinical evidence does not imply certainty of outcome. Individual responses vary, and no specific level of improvement can be guaranteed.
This page explains why certain outcome areas are prioritised, not how much improvement will occur.
Relationship to Treatment Goals
The treatment aims described in clinical practice reflect typical clinical goals informed by both evidence and real-world experience.
They should be understood as reasonable aims, not promises.
Summary
Research informs clinical focus areas
Outcomes vary between individuals
Evidence supports potential benefit, not certainty
Honest expectations are central to ethical care